St. Thomas Police patrolling school zones after report of suspicious van

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St. Thomas police are investigating a report of a suspicious vehicle on Fairview Ave. around 3:30 p.m. Friday.

The vehicle, described as a dark-coloured GMC or Chevrolet-style van with a sliding door on the side, approached three young girls (ages 9 and 10) while they walked home from school.

The male driver offered the girls a ride due to the cold weather. The girls declined and continued home and reported it to their parents.

The male is described as being light skinned, thin build, 20 to 40 years of age with a dark beard and moustache.

Police are continuing to patrol school zones in an effort to identify the driver of the van.

Forest Park Public School principal Dave Westaway sent a note home to parents and guardians at the beginning of the week to advise them of the situation.

As a result of the incident, Westway says its the perfect time for schools and parents to ensure youngsters have a plan

"It's one of those opportunities to learn and make sure kids have a plan," stressed Westaway. "That's what we talked about here, having a plan in place and talking to the students to say if this happens, what would you do in that situation just so it is in their heads.

"The advice we're giving kids is if they are close to the school, come right back. If you are closer to home or you know an adult close by, then get to that location as soon as possible."

He urged parents to adopt the same approach to ensure a safe trip to and from school. Westaway said he had been in contact with other city schools to alert them of the incident.